The history of Stone Town is storied and fascinating. Explore the town with our guide and walk in the footsteps of slaves as we share with you our insights into the architecture, people and influences on this town.
The tour starts at Darajani Market, the main city market, which was opened in 1904. Here the colourful tropical fruits, vegetables, aromatic spices, and fresh fish from the island are haggled over, bartered, and sold, while you can buy a host of other souvenirs and local specialties from the stalls surrounding the market area.
Other highlights on our historical Stone Town tour are visits to:
- The Christ Church Anglican Cathedral, built by Bishop Edward Steere in 1873, on the site of the Old Slave Market
- The Sultan’s Palace Museum (Beit al-Sahel), also known as the People’s Palace, built in the 1890’s for members of the Royal Sultan’s family
- The House of Wonders (Beit-el-Ajaib), constructed in 1883 as a royal ceremonial function palace
- The historic Africa House Hotel, the site of the English Club in 1888
- The ocean-facing Jamituri (Forodhani) Gardens: a perfect spot for evening sundowners with a lively street-food market.